The Border Management Authority (BMA) has made a “major drug bust” at the OR Tambo International Airport cargo terminal, where more than eight kilogrammes of Rohypnol had arrived on a flight from Nigeria.
Spokesperson for the BMA, Mmemme Mogotsi said 8.1 kilogrammes of Rohypnol drugs, commonly known as the "date rape drug” were found concealed in a consignment of dried fish.
In South Africa, the BMA said Rohypnol is classified as a Schedule 6 drug.
The Wits University website, citing the US Department of Health and Human Services, states that Rohypnol is a drug which is commonly used as a date rape drug internationally, including in South Africa.
“It is a powerful and dangerous drug sometimes used to assist sexual assault and rape. Date rape drugs are used on both females and males. It is used by perpetrators often at parties, raves, and clubs,” the Wits University warned students.
According to Mogotsi, the successful operation at the busy airport comprised of BMA officials, Customs officials of the SA Revenue Service (Sars), the SA Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAPHRA).
“The operation uncovered the consignment which arrived in a flight from the Republic of Nigeria. A case is being registered with the South African Police Service,” she said.
“The Border Management Authority is committed to maintaining border law enforcement with strict control measures in place to detect and prevent illegal activities.”
Meanwhile, commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Dr Michael Masiapato has saluted the officials involved in the “dynamic operation”.
Additionally, the Wits University website highlights that the drugs can be slipped into a drink (spiking) by perpetrators quickly when the unsuspecting person is not looking.
“It cannot be detected because it is tasteless and there is no the awareness of being drugged at the time. Within 30 minutes of being drugged, weakness and confusion occur, sometimes leading to loss of consciousness, but appearing drunk to others,” according to Wits.
This means a person drugged by Rohypnol or a similar club drug, becomes unable defend themselves, or refuse sex and cannot remember what happened while they were drugged.
“Rohypnol can also cause these, among other serious problems: difficulty standing; problems with moving; feeling drunk; difficulty talking; dizziness; and sleepiness,” the Wits University website warned.
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